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Ascot: Sister Stanislaus celebrates 90th birthday

Beloved Sister Stanislaus 'Stan' Kelly who was headteacher at the Marist Preparatory School from 1971 ­ 1989 celebrated her 90th birthday on Saturday 29 November.

Recognising her long years of service to the Marist Sisters and the Marist Schools, the Diocese of Portsmouth awarded Sister Stan a Diocesan medal which she will cherish. Originally from Oranmore, County Galway, Sister Stan has been living in Sunninghill since 1947 and was one of the 12 original Sisters to move to the new 'Rosary Convent' from her former Convent home in Richmond. She has many wonderful memories of teaching at the school including opening the Marist Nursery for the very first time in September 1994. Another of her memories includes walking to watch the Royal Party drive past on their way to Royal Ascot (a tradition begun in the 1940's) when at that time the whole school lined up to wave at the Queen. On one such trip, one small child asked her "Sister, are we still in England?"

Sister Stan recently fell and is currently convalescing from her accident in hospital. All the sisters, staff and students at the Marist Convent and School wish her a speedy recovery and hope she is back home at the Convent again very soon.

Mrs Jenny Peachey, current headteacher at the Marist Preparatory School said "Sister Stan is still a very much loved member of the school community and all the children adore her."

Mr Karl McCloskey, headteacher at the Marist Senior School added "Sister Stan is cherished by all. She is truly a living legend. They don't make headteachers like Stan any more! She is delighted that the Diocese has recognised her many years of devotion and service to the Marist Order for her 90th birthday. It is a touching and very well deserved accolade for her."

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